subject: Homeowners Can Install Their Own Wind Powered Generator [print this page] Homeowners Can Install Their Own Wind Powered Generator
Homeowners considering the use of a wind turbine to produce electricity have the choice of many different models currently on the market. As a greater percentage of our population becomes familiar with these renewable energy wind turbines and how they operate, a whole class of smaller, easy-to-install units is emerging and newer, more efficient designs are being created every year.
Find Out How much Energy Is Needed
Very well developed programming is now available to calculate exactly how much power needs to be generated in order to supply a single family home, whether it be for extensive use, or just for running a few light bulbs or an appliance. These cost calculators are often in a downloadable form and will tell homeowners the actual cost of installing any particular generator, as well as a close estimate of how continuously the machine would have to be in operation. This helps immensely in determining which model should be purchased.
Choosing The Correct Generator
This depends on how much electricity needs to be produced, and whether the unit will be placed on a free-standing tower, or directly on a rooftop. Different counties and even individual communities often have restrictions about where renewable energy wind turbines can be installed. A permit may be required for either a tower or a roof-mounted propeller assembly. The amount of available wind can also be a major factor when choosing a model; the average windspeed 50 feet above ground in the center of a property may be much higher than on the roof of a home or other structure.
What These Units Might Cost
Less expensive units that produce only a small amount of current can be purchased for under $1,000, and can generate enough power to run some lighting or an appliance. There are even miniature propeller-driven generators that are used solely for battery chargers. Larger units, whether mounted on a tower or on a rooftop, can cost upwards of $10,000. However, the government offers a tax credit upon purchase and installation of a wind generator, and homeowners are actually paying up front what they would spend monthly if remaining on the utility grid. Once a home is being powered by a wind turbine, energy costs will not go up. The unit is already paid for, and the homeowner is totally free from rising electrical prices.
There is a new sense of urgency to "get off grid." Individuals and companies alike are beginning to tap the power of the wind and utilize renewable energy wind turbines for home and commercial use. Estimates that over four times the world's current energy consumption can be produced by this power is something to consider.
